v3.10.0.1
Document and Entity Information - shares
9 Months Ended
Sep. 30, 2018
Nov. 06, 2018
Document and Entity Information [Abstract]    
Entity Registrant Name LINCOLN EDUCATIONAL SERVICES CORP  
Entity Central Index Key 0001286613  
Current Fiscal Year End Date --12-31  
Entity Filer Category Non-accelerated Filer  
Entity Small Business true  
Entity Emerging Growth Company false  
Entity Ex Transition Period false  
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding   24,641,792
Document Type 10-Q  
Amendment Flag false  
Document Period End Date Sep. 30, 2018  
Document Fiscal Year Focus 2018  
Document Fiscal Period Focus Q3